A Checklist for Rental Managers – How to Find Responsible Pet Owners

HSUS

The following is a list of questions to use when interviewing prospective residents with pets. These questions will assist you in getting to know a resident and his or her commitment to providing responsible pet care. We strongly suggest that you meet the pet, especially dogs; a well-groomed, well-behaved pet is one of the best signs of a responsible pet caregiver.

Thinkstock

For All Pet Owners

What types of pets do you have?

How long have you had your pets?

Do you have a letter of recommendation from your veterinarian stating that each pet is in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations?

Do you have any written reference for your pets from your current landlord?

Have there been any complaints about your pet at your current address? If so, have you paid your landlord for all the damage done?

Does your pet have any medical or behavioral problems? If so, what treatment or training is he receiving?

May I visit you and your pet after you move in to see how your pet is adjusting?

Who will care for your pet when you are on vacation?

For Cat Owners

Has your cat been spayed or neutered?

Do you keep your cat indoors?

Does your cat use the litter box that you provide?

Does your cat wear a collar with visible identification?

Is your cat registered with the local animal care and control authority (if required by local law)?

For Dog Owners

Has your dog been spayed or neutered?

Is your dog licensed and wearing a collar with visible identification?

Is your dog housetrained?

Do you keep your dog on a leash when you go for walks?

How do you clean up your dog’s waste when walking him?

Have you and your dog completed a dog training class?

How much time does your dog spend alone each day?

How often do you treat your dog for fleas and ticks?

Has your dog ever bitten anyone?

Adapted with permission from materials originally produced by the Hawaiian Humane Society.